As much as I adore Packers cuties Aaron Rodgers and Clay Matthews, my heart belongs to the 49ers – the team I have loved since moving to Charlotte many years ago, and discovering the “hometown connection” Dwight Clark and his family had here. Of course, the Panthers are my number one team now, but the 9ers are a close second. I know our dear Phineas will also be rooting for the 49ers tonight, but the question of the day is: is he well-stocked on martini mix for tonight’s game? Inquiring minds want to know …

On the Ravens and the Broncos, I think Peyton Manning will shine and carry his team to victory – which I will be happy to see for Coach Fox (formerly the coach for the Panthers). I’m picking the Seahawks over the Falcons, since I believe the Falcons are somewhat overrated (don’t hate!), and I believe the Patriots will be victorious over the Texans in a very hard fought game.

Rats, no Manning or Rodgers in the Super Bowl this year, and I have to listen to Ray Lewis’ preening and mugging for another week….if the Panthers would just get rid of Rivera before it’s too late to get another head coach, then I’d have some good NFL news this week!

As someone with no dog in any of the fights (ok, I would like Brady to get another ring), I will say that so far it is 3 for 3 in great games. Especially that Atlanta/Seattle game. WOW!!! Love great games.